New York 2017: Honda reveals the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid and the Clarity Electric

Honda chose the 2017 edition of the New York Auto Show to unveil two models that will join the Clarity family. From now on, the eco-friendly Clarity model line-up will offer three technologies: plug-in hybrid, all-electric and hydrogen fuel cell.

Deliveries for the Clarity Fuel cell have already started, although this model is only sold in the U.S, same for the electric Clarity, which will be reserved exclusively for California and Oregon in the initial phase. However, Canada will welcome the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, a sedan that is meant to compete with the Toyota Prius and Hyundai Ioniq, amongst others.

An efficient powerplant

Honda revealed some interesting numbers in regards to the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid. The manufacturer anticipates an overall driving range rating in excess of 530 kilometers, which would translate to a fuel economy rating of 2.24 liters to 100 kilometers combined. To attain these numbers, the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid uses an electric motor with a 17-kilowatt hour (kWh) battery pack mated to a four-cylinder, 1.5 liter Atkinson cycle engine. The total power output is 181 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque.

Drivers will be able to modify the driving dynamics of the Clarity thanks to three selectable modes – Normal, Econ and Sport – that can all be used in conjunction with the HV mode, which is there to maintain the battery’s state of charge.

Comfort and technology

Details about the interior characteristics of the Clarity are limited at the moment. What has been published is that it will be able to comfortably sit five adults, and that the infotainment will be geared with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. In addition, Honda stipulates that all Clarity models will be offered with the Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive technologies.

The Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid will be officially launched in Canada later this year.